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The Kea Chronicles

Sustainability Spotlight: The Tiaki Promise

At Glenorchy Air, we’re privileged to fly over some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking landscapes – from the towering peaks of the Southern Alps to the deep fiord of Milford Sound. With that privilege comes responsibility. We believe in not just showcasing Aotearoa’s natural beauty, but also protecting it for future generations. 

That’s why we’ve taken the Tiaki Promise – a commitment to care for the land, people, and culture of New Zealand by travelling responsibly and encouraging others to do the same.

What is the Tiaki Promise?

“Tiaki” means to guard, care for, and protect in te reo Māori. The Tiaki Promise is a nationwide initiative that encourages both locals and visitors to respect and look after New Zealand while travelling. It’s a commitment to:

  • Caring for the land, sea, and nature – leaving no trace and minimising our impact.
  • Travelling safely and showing consideration for others – being responsible and respectful.
  • Respecting New Zealand’s culture and communities – honouring the values of kaitiakitanga (guardianship) and manaakitanga (hospitality).

How Glenorchy Air Upholds the Tiaki Promise

As a family-owned and locally operated company, we are dedicated to sustainability, cultural respect, and responsible tourism. Here’s how we are bringing the Tiaki Promise to life:

  • Sustainable Flying – We operate modern, fuel-efficient aircraft and continuously work to reduce emissions and minimise our carbon footprint. As a Toitū Carbon Reduce certified business, we’re actively taking steps to operate as sustainably as possible.
  • Protecting New Zealand’s Natural Beauty – We encourage passengers to follow Leave No Trace principles, respecting the pristine environments we fly over.
  • Honouring Local Culture and Communities – New Zealand is not just about landscapes. It’s also about the people and stories that make this land unique. We taking pride in sharing the cultural significance of the places we fly to, helping visitors gain a deeper connection to Aotearoa.
  • Encouraging Safe and Responsible Travel – From weather conditions to remote landscapes, New Zealand can be unpredictable. We help visitors travel safely and responsibly, whether in the air or exploring on foot.

Join Us in Taking the Tiaki Promise

Protecting New Zealand is a shared responsibility, and we invite all our passengers to take the Tiaki Promise with us. By travelling responsibly, respecting the land and its people, and making conscious choices, we can ensure that future generations can experience the magic of Aotearoa just as we do today.

Learn more about our commitment to sustainability here.

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Scenic Flights
How long is this trip?

This is a Half Day experience. From check in 30 minutes before departure, to landing back at Queenstown Airport, is approximately 5 to 5 1/2 hours. Please note, this does not include time for self-driving or using our complimentary transfers. If you have plans immediately either side of your experience with us, please let us know.

What time is best to fly?

It’s always a good time to fly! If the option is there, we would suggest either our 9.00am or 1.30pm departures. Please note, our 1.30pm departure time is only available at certain times of the year. Whilst we cannot guarantee it, Milford Sound can sometimes be a little bit quieter at these times.

What should I bring?

We suggest you bring the following with you to make it a great day out:

  • Any essential medication
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Bug Spray
  • Camera – make sure it’s fully charged
  • Warm clothing layers – you’ll want to enjoy the open-air viewing decks where it can get chilly
  • Sensible footwear
  • Bottle of water
How long is the scenic flight?

Your flights between Queenstown and Milford Sound are approximately 40 minutes each way.

How long is the cruise?

Your Nature Cruise through Milford Sound with our partners Southern Discoveries is 1 hour 45 mins.

Is food included with the cruise?

No, lunch is not included. When making your booking online, you have the option to add a picnic lunch for an additional cost that will be ready for you on the cruise. We have vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options available.

Complimentary tea, coffee and water is available. A selection of small snacks are available to purchase onboard. You are also welcome to bring snacks of your own.

Is there an indoor area on the cruise?

Yes, the cruise has a large indoor area with comfortable seating and tables.

What will I see on the cruise?

Your cruise through Milford Sound is on a boat with a large open-top deck and comfy interior cabins with full-height windows for optimal viewing. Take in the stunning scenery of Mitre Peak, Stirling Falls, Copper Point, and the Tasman Sea. Keep an eye out for seals, dolphins and penguins.

Is the cruise suitable for an infant?

We would say the cruise is suitable for all ages.

Is there a nappy changing facility/station available inside the cruise?

Yes, there is a nappy changing facility onboard the cruise.

What happens if the weather prevents us from flying back to Queenstown?

Our pilots will always look at the forecast for the full duration of your trip and if we feel like the weather may change, we will not leave Queenstown. Due to the weather-dependent nature of flying in the Southern Alps to Milford Sound, it is unfortunate that there are very rare occasions where the forecast changes on us and although uncommon, it can be a case that we are unable to operate the return flight. The safety of our passengers is always our highest priority and in the unlikely event that this ever occurs, we will arrange coach transfers back to Queenstown. We fully appreciate the inconvenience this will cause and do everything we can to look after our passengers.